U-Haul Install Trailer Hitch (2024)

FAQs

Can I install a trailer hitch myself? ›

Yes, you can install a trailer hitch by yourself as long as you have the right tools for the job.

The standard size is the 2" hitch ball. The 2" hitch ball is the standard size required to rent a U-Haul trailer, whether it be the 5x9 Utility Trailer or 6x12 Cargo Trailer. The 2" hitch ball fits most class 3 receivers, which is typically the most common trailer hitch.

This installation can protect your belongings and help give you peace of mind on the road. Trailer hitches can also make the process of strapping down your cargo easier than non-hitch alternatives. If you frequently find yourself carrying overhead cargo, a trailer hitch might be for you.

The average cost to install a trailer hitch ranges from $175 to about $375 for class 1 to 4 hitches. The total cost of installing a trailer hitch is $300 to $850. A fifth wheel hitch alone costs $1,200, on average.

Installation time varies across vehicles, but the whole process typically ranges anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours.

Any vehicle towing a trailer requires a trailer wiring harness to safely connect the taillights, turn signals, brake lights and other necessary electrical systems. If your vehicle is not equipped with working trailer wiring, there are a number of different solutions to provide the perfect fit for your specific vehicle.

Hitch Types

A device which attaches directly to the tow vehicle providing the connection between the tow vehicle and the trailer. A fixed tongue hitch includes the ball platform, while a receiver style hitch has a receptacle (typically 1-1/4" or 2") for inserting special ball mounts or bike racks.

A too-high hitch is very dangerous. When the hitch height is higher than the trailer, the trailer will tip backwards, unbalanced and wobbly. This poor weight distribution will result in a hazardous driving situation for you and others on the road.

There has to be a little wiggle room in your hitch receiver in order to get a tow bar or ball mount to slide into and out of it. When everything's brand new there isn't a lot of free play, but over just a short period of time on the road, metal-on-metal contact will start to widen that distance.

How do I choose a ball mount for U-Haul? ›

A tow hitch is simply another name for a trailer hitch. It is a hitch used for towing a trailer. Usually, tow hitch refers specifically to a receiver hitch. However, a 5th wheel hitch, gooseneck hitch and other hitches may be called tow hitches.

Any vehicle towing a trailer requires a trailer wiring harness to safely connect the taillights, turn signals, brake lights and other necessary electrical systems. If your vehicle is not equipped with working trailer wiring, there are a number of different solutions to provide the perfect fit for your specific vehicle.

Try to position the vehicle's ball hitch directly under the trailer hitch to avoid having to move the trailer manually. Then, place the coupler directly over the hitch ball. Lower the coupler until it has completely covered the hitch ball. Make sure the ball clamp is below the ball and not riding on top of it.